Derby County manager Phillip Cocu has told RamsTV how Krystian Bielik is fit to play against Reading and striker Jack Marriott is also expected to return to action.
The Rams head to the Madejski Stadium looking to end a five-game winless run.
On the road, Derby have lost five straight games without scoring. It’s a wretched run of form, with manager Phillip Cocu forced into several changes due to injuries to key players.
(Photo by Jon Hobley/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images).
But the Dutchman will be boosted by the return of Bielik and Marriott. Speaking to RamsTV, Cocu suggests the duo will feature for Derby at Reading on Saturday.
Krystian Bielik is looking good. He trained. He was on the bench last game but he trained without any problems this week, so he is 100% fit. Jack Marriott will get involved in training today [Thursday]. Hopefully if it goes well he will be available. Matt Clarke is ahead of schedule, but not involved in the game on Saturday.
Derby have missed Krystian Bielik in the centre of midfield.
The Poland international joined the Rams in a projected £10 million deal last summer. He is a pivotal player, breaking up opposition attacks and initiating counterattacks.
Bielik is Derby’s most effective player out of possession. The 21-year-old averages 2.8 tackles per game, compared to George Evans who managed just one per game.
The return of Marriott is also a big boost. While he has lacked goals this season, the former Peterborough United striker offers this side a different proposition going forward.
(Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images).
Marriott and Martin have the potential to be a decent partnership upfront. However, whether by injuries or tactics, the two have rarely had the chance to play together this season.
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